Toward the Same Goal

It was with a combination of dismay and disgust that I read the March 25 article concerning certain members of the Moorpark school board attempting to place school administrators in the position of legal adviser to students.

It seems that these school board members have forgotten that the police are merely an extension of the community and that the police require the willing cooperation of its citizens to be effective in protecting that community from the criminal element.

As a member of the Sheriff's Department, I have interviewed many students at schools throughout the county and have always encouraged any school administrator to be present when a student is interviewed. Existing law also requires an officer to advise a juvenile of his rights if he is considered a suspect in an investigation.

I noticed that the article did not explain the reason why this matter should become an issue before the school board. I am forced to wonder if some member of the board is not using an official position as a means to address some personal grievance.

I trust wiser opinions will prevail, and the community and police relationship will continue to work toward the same goal.